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Ah, heav'n! What is't I hear?

Introduction

Blow’s charming setting of Ah, heav’n! What is’t I hear?, published in Amphion Anglicus in 1700, shows an elegant control of vocal line and an effective use of adventurous harmony, all contained within a compact and clearly defined structure. The duet is an excellent example which justifies the respect which Blow’s work received during his lifetime, and the unfairness of Burney’s attacks on his abilities as a composer.

Recordings

This recording of duets by the great composers of the Restoration is one of the gems of Hyperion’s catalogue. It features the celebrated countertenors James Bowman and Michael Chance at the peak of their powers.» More

Details

Ah, heav’n! What is’t I hear? The warbling lute inchants my ear, I hear the warbling lute, The warbling lute inchants my ear; Now beauty’s pow’r inflames my breast again, I sigh, I languish in a pleasing pain; The note’s so soft, so sweet the ayre; The soul of love sure must be there; That mine in rapture charms, And drive away despair. Ah, heav’n! What is’t I hear?